Taking on one of the industry’s most high-profile sales roles was never going to be straightforward. In the latest episode of the Cruise Corner Podcast, Yasmin McKechnie reflects on the exciting challenge that came with stepping into the role of Princess Cruises UK, Ireland and EMEA sales director

Speaking to Cruise Corner co-host Will Payne, McKechnie reflects on her whirlwind first eight months in the role and touches on the biggest challenges she’s faced, the team changes driving the cruise line forward and why she’s excited about Princess’ future.

Plus, she gives an exclusive first look at an exciting competition Cruise Trade News and Princess Cruises are launching this summer – watch this space for more information.

The conversation also takes an unexpected turn as McKechnie reverses the roles, putting Payne in the interview hot seat. Fresh from sailing aboard Star Princess in Alaska and joining Princess’ Destination Experience fam trip in Marseille, Payne shares his thoughts on the experience and why shore excursions are becoming one of the cruise line’s biggest selling points for travel agents.

Before the special interview, Cruise Corner co-hosts Jack Carter and Josie Klein join Payne to discuss the latest Barclays spending data, which showed travel agent sales have returned to growth despite wider economic uncertainty. The team also look ahead to the 2026 Wave Awards following the announcement of this year’s shortlist.

The last episode of the Cruise Corner Podcast saw the launch of the new Cruise Titans series, where Payne sat down with one of the sector’s most respected leaders, Azamara Cruises CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler, to explore the journey that took her to the top, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what it’s really like leading a global cruise brand.

You can listen to the podcast via the above link, or on all leading platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. You can also view the video version on YouTube.